Optical detection system for capillary separation columns

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EP 0 527 652 A3

(12)	EUROPEAN PATENT APPLICATION

(88)	Date of publication A3:
	21.04.1993 Bulletin 1993/16

(43)	Date of publication A2:
	17.02.1993 Bulletin 1993/07

(21)	Application number: 92307419.9

(22)	Date of filing: 13.08.1992

(51)	International Patent Classification (IPC)⁵: G01N 30/74, G01N 35/08, G01N 21/05, G01N 27/26

(84)	Designated Contracting States:
	DE FR GB IT SE

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Priority:

13.08.1991 US 744563

(60)	Divisional application:
	95201349.8 / 0672904

(71)	Applicant: VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
	Palo Alto, California 94304-1030 (US)

(72)	Inventors:
	Burgi, Dean S. Palo Alto, CA 94303 (US) Chien, Ring-Ling San Jose, CA 95129 (US) Helmer, John C. Menlo Park, CA 94025 (US)

(74)	Representative: Cline, Roger Ledlie et al
	EDWARD EVANS & CO. Chancery House 53-64 Chancery Lane London WC2A 1SD London WC2A 1SD (GB)

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References cited: :

(54)	Optical detection system for capillary separation columns

(57) On-column optical detection apparatus and method for use with capillary separation columns are shown. The apparatus and method minimize the adverse effects of light scattered from the walls of the column, thereby improving detection sensitivity and providing greater dynamic range. Light from a conventional source is focussed onto a column. Spatial filter means are positioned in front of the column to prevent at least some light from striking the column wall. Another spatial filter is positioned in front of a light collecting means which gathers light emanating from the column. In a specific embodiment, a unique monolens design is shown comprising collecting and focussing lens formed as an integral unit with a bore for a capillary column.

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